"Save more money" is the most common New Year's resolution—and one of the most commonly broken. Here's how to set financial goals that actually stick past January.
Why Most Financial Resolutions Fail
- Too vague: "Save more" isn't actionable
- Too ambitious: "Save 50% of income" when you've saved 0%
- No plan: Goal without strategy
- No tracking: Can't see progress
- All or nothing: One slip = give up
The SMART Goal Framework
Make each goal:
- Specific: Exactly what you'll achieve
- Measurable: Numbers you can track
- Achievable: Challenging but realistic
- Relevant: Matters to your life
- Time-bound: Deadline or milestone dates
ℹ️ Example Transformation
Vague: "Save more money" SMART: "Save £3,000 for an emergency fund by December 31st by saving £250 per month"
Good Financial Goals to Consider
- Build a £1,000 emergency fund by [date]
- Pay off [specific debt] by [date]
- Track all spending for 3 months
- Increase pension contribution by 1%
- Negotiate and reduce 3 bills by [date]
- Save [amount] for [specific goal]
- Create and follow a budget for 6 consecutive months
Track Your Financial Goals
Use iBudget to set goals and track progress all year long.
Making Goals Stick
1. Start Small
If you've never budgeted, don't commit to zero-based budgeting perfection. Start with tracking.
2. Automate
Set up automatic transfers so savings happen without willpower.
3. Track Progress
Weekly or monthly check-ins keep you motivated and aware.
4. Plan for Setbacks
One bad month doesn't mean failure. Plan your recovery strategy now.
5. Reward Milestones
Celebrate progress—small rewards for hitting targets keep motivation high.
Quarterly Reviews
Don't wait until December to assess:
- March: Are you on track? Adjust if needed
- June: Halfway check-in
- September: Final push planning
- December: Celebrate and set next year's goals
About iBudget
iBudget helps couples and families take control of their finances with simple, collaborative budgeting tools. Track spending, set goals, and build wealth together.
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